Best time to visit
Where to go in August: the destinations with the best weather
August extends summer, but not every region of the world enjoys the same conditions. Here's where the weather is most favourable this month.
P
PlanTripNow Team
July 19, 2026 · 4 min read
August extends summer in the northern hemisphere and remains, alongside July, one of the busiest months to travel. Weather is broadly stable across many destinations, but with important nuances depending on the region of the world.
Northern Europe and Asia-Pacific
In Northern Europe, Finland, Norway and Sweden enjoy the peak of their summer: mild temperatures, still-long and bright days, in a natural setting that lends itself particularly well to hiking and outdoor activities. It's a popular time to discover these countries without the cold of other seasons.
In Asia and the Pacific, Bali remains in the middle of its dry season in August, one of the driest and sunniest months of the year on the island. French Polynesia also benefits from a pleasant dry season, with less humid air than during the local summer.
Africa and South America
In Africa, Kenya continues to enjoy its dry season, with around nine hours of sunshine a day and good conditions for safaris. Southern African destinations (Namibia, Botswana, South Africa) are also in a favourable period for wildlife watching, as thinner vegetation makes sightings easier.
In South America, Peru, Colombia and Brazil are going through the southern winter, meaning a dry season across much of these countries: a climate often considered optimal for visiting the Andes or the Amazon, with less rainfall than during the local summer.
August's best picks
| Destination | Why in August |
|---|---|
| Northern Europe | Finland, Norway, Sweden: peak of summer, long and mild days. |
| Bali | One of the driest, sunniest months of the year on the island. |
| Kenya & Southern Africa | Dry season, good safari conditions. |
| Peru, Colombia, Brazil | Southern winter and dry season across much of the country. |
| French Polynesia | Dry season, less humid air than the local summer. |
Destinations to avoid in August
Conversely, India, mainland Southeast Asia and the Philippines are still in the middle of the monsoon in August. The Antilles, the Caribbean and Mexico are going through a period of hurricane risk, which generally corresponds to the peak of the Atlantic season: this isn't reason enough to cancel a trip, but it does call for extra attention to forecasts and travel insurance.
Key facts for August
Best for nature & cool weather
Finland, Norway, Sweden
Best for guaranteed sun
Bali, French Polynesia
Best for safari
Kenya, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa
To avoid
India, mainland Southeast Asia, the Caribbean
Watch out for
Peak of the Atlantic hurricane season
Destinations in this article
Frequently asked questions
Why is Northern Europe recommended in August?
August is the peak of the Scandinavian summer, with mild temperatures and still very long, bright days. It's a comfortable time for hiking and outdoor activities, before the cold returns in autumn.
Is Kenya a good choice in August?
Yes, August falls in the middle of the dry season, with generous sunshine and thinner vegetation that makes it easier to spot wildlife. It's a very popular time for safaris.
Why is the hurricane season a point of caution in August?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, with intensity generally increasing at the height of summer. This doesn't mean the Caribbean should be avoided, but it's advisable to monitor forecasts and take out suitable travel insurance.
P
PlanTripNow Team
A team of travellers who test, taste and map the best addresses around the world to help you plan itineraries that feel truly local.
From inspiration to itinerary
Turn this article's tips into a day-by-day itinerary with PlanTripNow.
